Rabies Vaccination Clinic

Posted on 7/3/2013
by
Tim Jennings

A low cost rabies vaccination clinic, sponsored by the Forsyth County departments of Public Health and Animal Control, will be held at the Forsyth County Animal Shelter. Only 1 year vaccinations will be available. Only cash transactions accepted.

Dogs, cats and ferrets only. Dogs must be leashed. Cats and ferrets must be in carriers.

If a dog or cat is exposed to a rabid animal, and does not have a current vaccination against the rabies virus, public health law requires the animal be tested for the virus, or quarantined for a 6 month period of observation for symptoms. An animal can harbor the virus for months, but it is only within the last few days of its life that it can be transmitted through a bite. Unfortunately a dog or cat must be euthanized in order for it to be tested and not many pet owners can afford the cost of the 6 month quarantine at a veterinarian hospital.

In the past 12 months, Animal Control Officers responded to 901 reports of animal bites and rabies exposures. Most exposures occur from pets coming in contact with high risk wildlife such as raccoons, It is tragic that during this period many dogs and cats had to be euthanized for the lack of a $5 rabies vaccination.

If you have questions please contact the Forsyth County Animal Control Department at 336-703-2480.